April 2017

Click here for the April 2017 Newsletter.

DRIVER REFRESHER DAY 31 MARCH 2017

A GROUP of 60 members of the Herefordshire Federation of Women’s Institutes took part in a Driver Refresher Day run by Herefordshire Advanced Drivers at the Hereford Racecourse.

David Williams, Chairman of Herefordshire Advanced Drivers, commented “It was great to see so many ladies wanting to become better, safer drivers. The presentations covered speed awareness, current motoring legislation and motorway driving. Each participant also experienced an hour’s assessment drive on a variety of local roads with a qualified observer, who gave them practical, friendly advice on advancing their driving skills.”

Veronica Madgen, who organised the WI participants, said: “Everyone I spoke to agreed that it was an interesting, informative and enjoyable day. The presentations were very professional and relevant to all aspects of better, safer driving in Herefordshire. We have lots to think about and put into practice.”

Kath Watts, Events Coordinator, said “Such was the interest that we have been asked to run further events with the WI during the coming year. We are also keen to run similar events for other safety-minded Herefordshire-based Groups.”

“Our regional Driver Refresher Days will be starting in Leominster in May, to be followed by Hereford, Ledbury and Ross-on-Wye. For details contact Kath on 01981 540382 or email events@advanced-drivers.org.uk

http://www.rossgazette.com/article.cfm?id=108968&headline=Action-packed%20drivers%20day%20for%20Hereford%20WI§ionIs=news&searchyear=2017

DRIVER REFRESHER COURSE FOR WI MEMBERS 31ST MARCH 2017

(As reported by Kate Best from Weobley WI)

What a day!  On 31 March 5 members of Weobley WI attended a Driver Refresher Day organised by the Institute of Advanced Motorists.  With no clear idea of what was involved, or how the course would progress, we arrived at Hereford Racecourse with no little ‘concern’.  Parking was possibly the first ‘test’, as several ladies (NOT from Weobley WI) seemed to find the act of reversing into their allocated slots rather more difficult than it should have been for ‘experienced drivers’!  We were directed to the Rusty Bridge restaurant – appropriate for us ‘rusty’ drivers – where we were welcomed and divided into four groups, given welcome (and calming) mugs of tea or coffee, and the essential forms to complete.  One surprise was to find over 60 women in attendance, all from Herefordshire WIs, so it was a good opportunity to meet other members.

First we were tested - in a ‘non-confrontational way’ - on our knowledge of a book called The Highway Code, vaguely remembered from years before.  We were quizzed about various lines and markings on the road, speed limits, road signs and much more, with Tina, our instructor, fielding the many questions coming from the floor. After coffee it was our turn to work, searching photographs for road hazards, discussing attitudes ‘behind the wheel’ and guessing the number of accidents and injuries on the roads.  We were horrified to learn that in 2015 there were 1,732 deaths, 22,144 serious injuries and 60,000 other injuries across the UK.  

We were told the five most important points in good driving, using the acronym COAST: Concentration (keep alert and fresh), Observation (look to the farthest point on the road as well as in periphery and rear vision), Anticipation (be aware of potential hazards), Space (between vehicles) and Time (planning your journey with recognised breaks).  After lunch, we each went off with an observer for ‘a drive’, and for some reason I expected this to be a 10 minute jaunt around the local area.  But no, it was 45 minutes around Portway, Wellington, past Queenswood, then Bodenham and Sutton St Nicholas, on a mix of major and minor roads, country lanes, even some dual carriageway, all with frequent questions and close observation. Afterwards, I was debriefed on 16 aspects of my driving with advice on how I could improve, as well as compliments on what I already do.  

It was a very informative, positive and surprisingly enjoyable experience and while we laughed a lot, we all learnt a lot more.  So do give it a go.